Troy school district aims to curb explicit texting

Published 12:00 am, Tuesday, July 31, 2012

TROY (AP) -- A suburban Detroit school district is taking steps to curb the practice of students using text messages or email to send sexually explicit photos or messages.

The Detroit News reports the Troy School District Board of Education recently adopted a policy that puts students on notice that cellphones, laptops and other electronic devices may be searched starting in September if there's "reasonable suspicion" of such sexually explicit communication.

Law enforcement authorities also may be contacted if such messages are found. School officials say the policy wasn't prompted by a specific incident.

The American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan, however, has concerns about Troy's policy, including how broadly it defines materials of a sexual nature. The ACLU also is concerned that the searches may lead to police getting involved.